Need help soundproofing a huge shared wall in a Loft/Condominium

12 years ago

last modified: 12 years ago

The truth is I have a tall loft with a full theater sound system. Unfortunately, I share this 16 x 10 feet wall with my neighbor and get complaints about low frequency sound all the time even though the volume is relatively low. I'm thinking it's because of the sheer size of the room and the wall that the bass causes a bigger-than-usual air vibration that bothers my neighbor.

Now, I'm not just looking to "soundproof" the wall with anything. I've thought about hanging a massive wall carpet, panels, maybe wall art with acoustic panels behind it even. I'm not sure what's effective and don't want to spend over too much as I'm on a budget, but I can be convinced to spend more (trying to keep my budget to $2500 or below). Any creative ideas would be appreciated!

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Comments (4)

PRO
Lampert Dias Architects, Inc.
12 years ago
I suggest that you contact an acoustic engineer. They can probably advice you with just a few hours of consulting which won't cost much.
PRO
Brindisi Builders
12 years ago
You can try mineral wool (also called rotten cotton) it is a sound deadening material much denser then standard insulation ( also used for fire stopping. We will typically open the wall, install the the rotten cotton then frame an additional wall staggering the stud then insulate again....then obviously close up with Sheetrock. Relatively speaking people are pleased with the results
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PRO
Cancork Floor Inc.
12 years ago
This is a job for cork. A cork glue down tile (flooring tile) cost between $1.29 - $3.29 per square foot. Your project could be done for (with adhesive) for $1000 (in my thickest, most expensive tile). We carry an 8mm (1/3") cork tile that will offer more sound proofing than acoustic drywall or the mineral wool.

Even my most expensive wall tile (5mm with soft finishing) is $4.99/sf = $800 + adhesive (add another $60 plus shipping).

8mm of cork flooring will offer the same as 5mm of solid rubber flooring (usually $12 - $18 per square foot). Solid rubber (the black stuff that stinks) is the only building product that out performs cork when it comes to acoustic properties.

If this interests you: www.icorkfloor.com for full details.
slooper2
12 years ago
Brindisi Builders, when you say you stagger the studs, you seem to be implying the wall thickness will increase - Do you need to give up a bit of space to get a soundproof wall? Are there any options that do not require to make the walls wider? My condo wall is 5 3/8'' wide (3'' studs + drywall on both sides) and it has fire /sound insulation wool. What is the most cost effective way to enhance the sound barrier (to prevent hearing noise from neighbors) in my case?